5-Minute Workouts for the Ultimate Couch Potato

Are you a total slacker on exercise, a real couch potato? Then this exercise routine is for you! It just takes five minutes, and it can be done in front of the TV. And yes, you will see results.

Equipment Needed

You will need some simple equipment you likely have around the house: a bath towel, an armchair and yourself. Remember, it doesn’t matter where you do these exercises–in front of your favorite show is probably the best place to keep you motivated.

1. Towel Twists

Grab the ends of your towel with each hand and stretch it apart. Raise your hands over your head keeping the towel stretched tight. With your feet planted hip width apart, twist at the waist and look to the right. Then twist and look to the left. Keep your arms high above your head and the towel taut. Do this 10 times to each side.

2. Butt Crawler

Sit on the floor in front of the TV with your legs out in front of you. Try to sit as tall as you can. Now, using your butt muscles and inching your legs alternately out in front of you, take 10 “butt-steps” forward, then 10 steps back. This is guaranteed to tighten those muscles and shape your fanny.

3. Toe Twister

While you’re still on the floor, spread your legs wide and simply attempt to touch one hand to your alternate toe. It’s okay if you can’t do it; just reach until you feel a stretch in the back of your leg. Don’t overdo it. This is to give you some limberness in your back and legs and help you feel looser overall. Hold it for a count of five seconds, then do the same with the other side.

4. Half Push-Ups

Find a strong arm of the couch, a chair or even the side of a tub. The idea is to be able to do a sort of push up without straining. Angle yourself out from the edge you are using so you make a triangle with the floor and your chin comes to the edge when you lower yourself. Lower yourself to the edge and slowly push up. Do this five times, working up to 10 over time.

5. Leg Lowers

This exercise can be done on the floor or the couch. Raise your legs over your stomach, perpendicular with the floor. Tighten your belly muscles and lower your legs just a few inches. Hold for a count of ten, then raise again. Do this five times. Work up to 10 counts of 10.

Before you shop: Keep it up for five weeks and you will see results. And here are a couple more five-minute workouts that we love from Pinterest.